HOME PORTRAIT: Gloucester condo holds plenty of surprises

By Barbara ForsterGateHouse Media

Friday

Nov 23, 2018 at 6:51 AM

Perhaps one of the most exciting aspects of living in a “loft” home is its versatility and multi-functionality. Unique architecture and a little history are often part of the package, too. Now and then — like this one — a home comes with surprises, too

ADDRESS: 8 Summer St., Unit 414, Gloucester

BEDROOMS: 2

BATHROOMS: 2 Full

LIVING SPACE: 1,450 sq. ft.

PRICE: $329,000

Perhaps one of the most exciting aspects of living in a “loft” home is its versatility and multi-functionality. Unique architecture and a little history are often part of the package, too. Now and then — like this one — a home comes with surprises, too

But that’s getting ahead of the story.

In the beginning

One of only 16 homes in the Hovey School Condominium, this unit has, as they say, charm and character to spare, not to mention space.

Incidentally, charm begins curbside at this stately brick building surrounded by attractive fencing and continues inside. Extra-wide staircases — remember this was an elementary school — are wonderful leftovers.

A mini staircase — it’s also wide but only has five steps — in the sizeable entry (complete with a double closet) leads to the main open-flow living-dining area. Exposed beams highlight wide pine planks in the ceiling accented with interestingly angled architectural supports. Stunning wood flooring is throughout this area.

A step-up platform adjacent to the spacious living-dining room — this can be configured and/or reconfigured as needed or desired — has fabulous windows including one that is eight-over-eight. A bonus is that there are exciting views that include the harbor and landlocked sites like the football field. The vaulted ceiling in this area that is currently used as an office adds drama.

A surprise in this room and, yes there are more, is that the platform can be removed thus expanding the living-dining area. Keep in mind that “as is,” this area can seat six to eight comfortably for meals and has room for a large conversation/seating area.

An exposed brick wall is accentuated by an 11-foot-high ceiling in the super-wide galley-like kitchen that has an eat-in area (if desired) tucked into a corner. A pantry closet and easy-to-maintain tile flooring are “practical” pluses in this room.

A main level bedroom — and it’s a big one — is another convenience. Exposed ceiling beams in the angled ceiling showcase the roof window in here. A double closet addresses storage needs satisfactorily, and wall-to-wall carpeting adds a cozy comfy feeling.

A Bosch stackable washer and dryer have their own “laundry” space in this room, too.

The full bathroom on this level is a prime example that charm and character are incorporated into every room. In addition to a very practical tub/shower combination with a fully tiled surround and a ceramic tile floor, this space has a pine plank ceiling.

Let’s keep going

The master suite on the second floor has it all: size as in large, interesting architectural features and great views. Exposed beams in the angled ceiling showcase the skylight in the sleeping chamber while two double closets address storage needs handily.

A tub/shower combination in the en suite bathroom has a tile surround but admittedly it's the cove-like ceiling with more exposed beams that increases the charm factor. Even better, this is a surprisingly large room.

The real surprise, however, is what is adjacent to the sleeping chamber -- a large multi-purpose space with lovely water views. Ideal as an office this also could be a sitting/craft room, whatever. An angled ceiling adds character in this private spot.

In case you wondered, this home comes with an assigned parking spot.

A Bit of House History

The Hovey School was named for Miss Marion Hovey, who introduced and supported physical education instruction in the high school. In 1892, she succeeded in providing high school instruction in the Ling Swedish method. Interestingly, Miss Elizabeth Gordon was assigned to teach students and teachers in the field.

Marion Hovey also provided more than $1,400 worth of equipment. “Gym” spread into the lower grades and Marion and her family kept the program alive until the city eventually took over its support.

Incidentally, local lore has it that Marion Hovey was the third female to ever vote in Gloucester.

Contact Jonathan McCarron of William Raveis Real Estate at 978-239-3633 or 781-631-1199 or by email: Jon.McCarron@raveis.com